First Spanish-Filipino biotech firm introduced

FROM LEFT, Doctors Ana Martinez and Carmen Gil, Jose Mari Olbes and Jose Leviste, representing Jose Leviste III

The 2.4 million people suffering from multiple sclerosis worldwide have something to hope for with the discovery of a molecule which can be a key to creating a drug for the treatment of their ailment.

Dr. Ana Martinez, PhD, a research professor at the Spanish National Council for Research, revealed her patented molecular discovery during the launch of Ankar Pharma, the first Spanish-Filipino biotech company specializing in neurodegenerative diseases.

The revelation was made during a press conference held on Wednesday at the Zuellig Building in Makati where the management team showed up. The team is composed of Martinez, chief scientific officer; Dr. Carmen Gil, PhD, chief research officer; Jose Maria Olbes, vice president for business development; and Jose D. Leviste III, general counselor.

The company name was derived from the first names of the two female members of the management team—Ana and Carmen, who was represented by Jose Leviste during the event.

Neurodegenerative diseases occur when the nervous system cells (neurons) in the brain and spinal cord begin to deteriorate. It is painful and heart-rending to see the health of a loved one who was once active deteriorate. That’s why the neurogenerative disease is a slow burn.

Multiple sclerosis is one of the world’s most common neurological disorders in many countries. It is the leading cause of nontraumatic disability in young adults.

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are the other neurodegenerative diseases. The number of people suffering from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases all over the world are 24 million and 7 million people, respectively.

With the help of investors from Spain and the Philippines, the biopharma company was created to develop a patented drug that promises to be a real game-changer.

For the project to flourish, Olbes said Ankar Pharma officials are mounting an investor program, which hopes to attract private investors, venture capitalist and foundations to support this objective. They will start their roadshow in Manila and will continue it in Madrid.

The founders believe in “giving back” to their country of origin and intend to make the Philippines the scientific hub for their biotech research and development.